Mercedes is facelifting. Where they previously refreshed the GLE and GLE Coupé, it is now the turn of the Mercedes GLA and Mercedes GLB. What has changed?
The Mercedes GLA was introduced by the Germans in 2014, after which it was facelifted in 2017. Three years later, the Stuttgarters designed a new generation of the compact SUV. In the same year, the Mercedes GLB saw the light of day. So Mercedes seems to maintain a three-year refresh interval, which explains the apparent premature facelift of the SUVs.
Mercedes GLA and GLB (2023): renewed exterior and interior
The GLA and GLB have been given a new design by Mercedes, both at the front and the rear. For example, the grille of both SUVs has been renewed with vertical slats, and the hoods have sporty lines. The headlights and taillights now feature LED lighting as standard.
The GLA and GLB will be available in the brand new paint color Spectral Blue and with four new wheel designs. In addition, the brand new GLA and GLB drivers can choose between 17, 18, or 20-inch light metal.
Then the interior, where the GLA and GLB have also received a similar approach. The 10.25-inch multimedia screen is standard for both cars, while the digital instruments can be selected between a 7 or 10.25-inch screen. The comfort seats are also standard, and can be ordered in black, macchiato beige, sage grey, bahia brown and red pepper. The latter two are available exclusively for the AMG line. Steering wheel heating is an option.
Drie multimedia-ways
Both models include the latest version of the MBUX multimedia system. The display styles can be adjusted by choosing three different modes: classic, sporty or subtle. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work wirelessly and, as in the GLE, a Burmester audio system with Dolby Atmos is optional. The parking package and the mirror package can also be ordered. Standard are the high beam assistant, a reversing camera and the USB package.
Every GLA and CAP is a little electric
Mercedes has electrified the entire motorization range in both the GLA and GLB. That means that the SUVs are always at least a mild hybrid. The GLA can also be ordered as a plug-in hybrid. This plug-in version has a larger range than before. The battery can also be charged faster with the 22 kW on-board charger.
What the new GLA and GLB will cost is still a mystery. A price increase seems inevitable, so count on higher starting prices than the small 47 mille (GLA) and 51 mille (GLB) you paid first.
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